Trauma and PTSD

When a person experiences a traumatic event that has threatened their life or safety, or the safety of those around them, they can be left with intense feelings or fear and helplessness. This can trigger responses such as avoidance, intrusive thoughts and high reactivity. This is called post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD.

A person may develop PTSD after a traumatic event such as a car crash, physical or sexual assault, war or torture, or natural disasters such as bushfires or floods.

Many people show symptoms of PTSD in the first few weeks after a traumatic event but recover on their own with the support of family and friends. Others may require treatment and support from health professionals.

Effective treatment for PTSD involves a mix of inpatient psychiatric care and outpatient psychological services.

How do we treat Trauma at Ramsay Clinic Albert Road?

Inpatient

Our inpatient service aims to assist people with a history of trauma in a supportive environment by helping them manage their symptoms and work towards leading a full and productive life. 

Day Programs

Day Programs are structured, therapeutic group sessions – think of it as ‘group therapy’. We have a diverse range of day programs on offer, each tailored to address the specific needs of the people we care for. Run once or twice a week, over a period of weeks or months, you’ll work with our expert therapists on building life skills, managing symptoms and preventing relapse. Depending on your program, you may also receive individual therapy sessions as part of your therapy.

Click here to view a list of day programs available at Ramsay Clinic Albert Road.

Outpatient Services

The Ramsay Clinic Albert Road Outpatient service provides specialist psychiatric services that do not require staying at the hospital. As an outpatient, you will be seen by a psychiatrist in our consulting suites. Psychiatrists at Albert Road can complete a range of services for outpatients including assessments, secondary consultations, short term or long-term care and therapy. The number of visits you may need will be discussed at your appointment and together with your psychiatrist, a treatment plan that meets your individual needs and the goals identified in your referral will be developed.

Outreach

Outreach is community-based care involving individualised treatment plans for adults or seniors delivered in your home. Sometimes, outreach will be provided via telehealth – like during period of lockdown because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Outreach is ideal for people who need short-term support after a stay at Ramsay Clinic Albert Road, for people who are waiting to begin a day program or who need longer-term support.